By All Means: It's (Finally) Dead!

Die hard fans may rephrase it like this:

Why did it has to end? Why can't we have more of Bella's vampire story?

Ugggh...

Sagas usually involved a long history, usually epic, usually involved generations, usually in ages... but not this saga. This saga I'm afraid can't be rated in stars, it's too "unusual" (as I am looking for a hammer in the head icon - sadly not found).

Having watched all five movies in this - ahem! - saga, I have to say they set a whole new definition in the history of movies. Actually, unlike its predecessors, the latest installment of the - ahem! - saga, is not half bad. It's almost completely bad! I have to admit I watched this just for the laugh and the eye candy of course. Where else could you find a herd of hunky werewolves and then there's Jasper and Emmett. For the latest installment I'm rewarded with the appearance of Lee Pace. Although deep down I'm crying (why Lee? why?!).

KStew and RPatz don't smooch as the previous Breaking Dawn installment since Bella can exercise her new vamp skills and muscles by hunting down helpless animals. Part of the reason probably for Bella not to smudge Edward's makeup base and glitter. One more scene that I don't really know how to put is the way Lautner (homo-erotically) stripping to Bella's dad. I remember, I smiled ear to ear during that scene. Best scene  ever! Thanks Lautner *kiss*

In typical Hollywood fashion we are usually rewarded with an ultimate final battle, Harry Potter has one with Voldemort. In this one, the battle is quite shocking and I have to say one of the cheapest trick in the history of Hollywood. HollyShit to be exact. Aro is being fooled by Alice as Michael Sheen being fooled by the Director. I can't stop wondering how such versatile actor like Michael Sheen would star in such terrible piece.

Fans of the series, will no doubt find it all terribly romantic and deeply meaningful. The rest of humanity will remain stiffer than wood like KStew facial expression. One positive outcome of the Breaking Dawn Part 2 is: a relieved smirk on my face as I got out of the cineplex. The damn thing is finally DONE. OVER. FINISH. FIN. FINITO. TERMINADO. 

Alhamdulillah.

Who's Your Favorite Screen Legend?

Lately I've been seeing lots of classical movies. I mean classical, black and white movies from Hollywood's Golden Era (1930s-1950s).

Garland and Temple

Growing up, I used to hear my mum's admiration towards Elizabeth Taylor and Monty Clift. So now that I have enough knowledge and resources (internet connection that is), I've done my share of admiration too. I watched some popular classical movies during my childhood (I enjoyed Shirley Temple and Judy Garland Movies). They always had a certain quality that brings me to smile and always been able to cheer me up. 

 Judy Garland

 Shirley Temple

The first classical movie that I purchased was Breakfast at Tiffany’s. As a fashion lover, I've heard a lot about Audrey Hepburn and thought that I'd like to see Breakfast at Tiffany's. I was lucky they have it on DVD here. So I purchase the DVD along with Jane Russel and MM's Gentleman Prefer Blondes. Can't say that I enjoyed both movies. Holly Golightly (Hepburn's character) doesn't impress me all that much. She's too artificial. Okay, probably she's a lonely lady, but I think she's a bit shallow. I searched for Audrey's other movies and kinda liked My Fair Lady and Roman Holiday. But I can't say that she's my favorite. 

Pride and Prejudice

Then I accidentally found Pride and Prejudice starring Greer Garson and Sir Lawrence Olivier. I have a certain niche for Jane Austen’s movies and I think this version of Pride and Prejudice was the best of all (even though the movie made Lady Catherine de Bourgh looked like a Saint). I actually liked Lady Catharine – which was portrayed in such a comical manner. The movie was so funny and witty, I completely got under the spell of the classical cult. Greer Garson and Olivier’s portrayal of Elizabeth & Darcy is by far the best of all version of P and P. So I started searching for Garson’s films, sadly I can only found Mrs. Minniver, which I think is great and Garson’s performance was outstanding. 

The Leading Ladies

Shirley Temple was my next target. She was soooo cute back then. I also adore Eleanor Parker, Ava Gardner, Sophia Loren, Olivia DeHavilland and Maureen O’Hara. I think they’re the most beautiful stars of the Golden Era. But no one beats Kate Hepburn. I find her very distinguish. She had a strong character that went all the way through her movies and the role she played.

 Eleanor Parker

 Ava Gardner

Greer Garson

 

Kate Hepburn

The Leading Men

After that it was Rock Hudson, the one actor my mother frequently mentioned, other than Monty Clift. And boy.... Hudson was one hot male. I mean, really, really hot. Who would've thought that he was gay. He was so perfect and had on screen chemistry with Doris Day, it's creepy.

Of course I stumble into Cary Grant and adore his debonair style and acting deeply. I liked Houseboat (with Sophia Loren), Philadelphia Story - PS - (with Jimmy Stewart and Kate Hepburn) and Holiday (with Kate Hepburn). I really think they have one of the strongest chemistry in the History of Hollywood.

Next, I've heard that You've Got Mail was a remake of an old movie. Turns out it was a really really old movie: The Shop Around The Corner. Starring Margaret Sullavan and Jimmy Stewart. I really really really liked the movie. Much better than the remake version and I completely adore Jimmy. Especially after I saw Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, directed by Frank Capra. I love the following scene so much. 

Capraesque Addiction

And from there, I started looking for Jimmy's Movies: It’s a Wonderful Life (IWL) and Philadelphia Story (PS). All Mr. Smith, IWL and PS were directed by Capra and without a doubt got addicted to Capraesque (Wikipedia has its own page for this term). Capra’s films usually carry a definite message about the basic goodness of human nature and show the value of unselfishness and hard work. His wholesome, feel-good themes have led some to term his style Capra-corn, but those who hold his vision in high regard prefer the term Capraesque. Nobody does movies like Capra did then. Dead Poets Society and Forrest Gump are very few examples of movies that I think probably pay a tribute to Frank Capra. Hail Capra!

Coop!

My admiration (and addiction) to Capra got me in very deep in Old Hollywood Era. After finding Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (Gary Cooper and Jean Arthur), I didn’t watch it until almost a year! After I watched it, I couldn’t take the movie (and Gary Cooper) off my mind. Gosh! I love that movie so much. I’m deeply, madly in love with Capra and Cooper! Modern Hollywood tried to remade the movie (remember the silly and awkwardly stupid Mr. Deeds starring Adam Sandler?). Mr. Deeds was a complete insult to both Capra and Cooper.

On my watch list (ready in the hard drive of my laptop) are the following Coop’s movies:

 

Coop won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Alvin York, the pacifist turned war hero in 'Sergeant York' in 1941. Such was Coop's fame and stature at that time the real life Alvin York had refused to authorize any movie about him unless he was portrayed by Gary Cooper. He won his second Academy Award for Best Actor and great critical acclaim for his controlled, understated portrayal of the embattled marshal facing his enemies, and his destiny, alone. Saw both movies and thought that Coop was way better and more believable as a cowboy than John Wayne. Coop was that everyday guy we can all relate to. 

In the end, the magic of Hollywood was created and peaked in the Golden Era. Dozens of major stars were born. I am so grateful that I came across these movies. Don’t know why but I got really tired of Modern Movies and found I enjoy TV Series more than the movies. But still, TV series are no comparison to Silver Screen movies, so I wander around and got lost in the Hollywood Golden Era and found myself not wanting to go back to the present time. I found my entertainment in Capra, Cooper, Stewart, Hepburn, Gardner, Grant, Loren and Garson.  

My last words of this post:

Brad Pitt stripping naked or fully clothed Gary Cooper eating an apple... ? Oh gosh almighty, the second one please!

I guess this is just another lost cause, Mr. Paine

I love that line... it was from Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. It was a line said by Jeff Smith near the end of the movie, closed with Smith being fainted in the courtroom, defending on that he believes.

Saw it  for the first time 2 years ago. Ever since that moment, (the late) James Stewart (absolutely no relation to K-Stew by the way) has been my all time most favorite actor.

If by any chance you're into political movies, I RECOMMEND you to see it. Mentioned the movie in my previous post http://virnamedina.blogspot.com/2009/10/what-is-most-inspiring-or-impressive.html. 

Well, how many of us stick to something the way Smith does?

The movie was about a naive and idealistic Jefferson Smith, is appointed on a lark by the spineless governor of his state. He is reunited with the state's senior senator--presidential hopeful and childhood hero, Senator Joseph Paine. In Washington, however, Smith discovers many of the shortcomings of the political process as his earnest goal of a national boys' camp leads to a conflict with the state political boss, Jim Taylor. Taylor first tries to corrupt Smith and then later attempts to destroy Smith through a scandal.

self note: 
All you people don't know about lost causes. Mr. Paine does. He said once they were the only causes worth fighting for. And he fought for them once, for the only reason any man ever fights for them; because of just one plain simple rule: 'Love thy neighbor.'... And you know that you fight for the lost causes harder than for any other. Yes, you even die for them.

Between a Humanitarian, a Former Prime Minister and A Comical Couple

The Book of Eli

Saw this last week. I have to say I’m impressed with the post-war futuristic yet apocalyptic and grim setting of the movie. In some common Hollywood movie, we will get a visual satisfaction of what the future would be, and certainly not the one captured in this movie. That is what makes this movie interesting. The idea of "The Book of Eli" is to rebuild society, but who will carry those ideas? The clash between Eli (Denzel W) and Carnegie (Gary Oldman) is quite interesting to watch. As Eli, Denzel’s performance is impeccable. Oldman is a remarkable actor, we are all aware of that. But to see him in this movie is to be aware that he allocates his entire spirit and personality for this role (Carnegie). I can’t stop observing his performance and I think it’s inimitable.

Lastly, I like the movie partly because it is a reminder to us human, not to waste things, to have a respect for objects we threw away, we might need them someday.

One particular quote I remember from the movie: "Before, people had more than they needed. They threw away things that people would kill for now.”

Verdict: 4.2 out of 5

The Ghost Writer

The movie is directed by Roman Polanski. Couple of years ago, he was quite famous.... for being a pedophile. For some time we seem to forget the great director behind the man. His latest big movie was The Pianist, gain Oscar nomination, but not quite as entertaining as Rosemary's Baby. It was my favorite Polanski movie by far.

Well.... I think the great director is back. Now I can remember him as the Director of Rosemary's Baby. As RB, I can also describe The Ghost Writer as a dark thriller. It's a dark political thriller and it gave me an unsettling feeling, through the uncertain nature of conspiracy. The movie was made with precision, supported by a great cast and a creepy atmosphere, Polanski left no detail unattended. The story centers around a politician and his support for America, or should I say his service to America to follow and back up whatever its direction lead him. Was Mr. Polanski inspired by the “love” story between Tony Blair and GWB? I think so. It’s a brave subject to begin with, Mr. Polanski. (I think I'm going to see Rosemary's Baby for the umpteenth times). Verdict: 4.5 out of 5.

Date Night

I'm very critical of comedies, so the fact that I giggled throughout the movie is a good sign. I like Tina Fey, so I took a chance on it. I didn’t like Steve Carrell, I always thought he looked stupid, but this movie proved me wrong. Still not loving him, but I have to admit he is a good comedian. They both are and they had great chemistry. The plot is silly, but the dialogue was hilarious. I would put this in the "dumb movies that are funny" category. I'd recommend it.

Verdict: 3.7 out of 5

New Moon Doesn't Bite. Not Even a Scratch......

"It's like a huge hole has been punched through my chest," Bella says.

Well... watching New Moon was just like punching a huge hole through my brain and twirl it around. Yes... it is THAT bad.

I feel underestimated by the way the movie represent the female lead, the sad and naive Bella Swan.

There is no message to speak of... well, not a good one, anyway. There seem to be three here that are particularly wrong to be sending to the intended teenage female audience.

The first is about the importance of external beauty. The second is about how life is not worth living without a man. The third is about how infatuation equals love, and that when you "love" someone, you should give up everything for them, even if it's dangerous to your well-being.

New Moon romanticizes the idea of suicide, and also Bella’s obsession over vampires.

Lastly, New Moon may be unoriginal and flimsy, but... thanks to Jacob Black and his werewolves pack, they made me sit through the whole story. Although I find it's hard to digest how a 16-17 years old boy can be so.... buff, so built.


Perhaps it should simply be taken as mindless fun; you can enjoy it as long as you don't use your brain too much (i.e., at all). So when you're watching the movie, just "Turn off your mind, relax and float downstream..."

What is The Most Inspiring or Impressive Film You've Ever Seen?

The answers can vary, from soapy romantic film to war film.
From colossal film to independent film.
From simple comedy to a film that requires full attention. Mine also vary.

From the horror genre, The Ring (Jap version) is the most frightening film to me, followed with The Others. I enjoy being afraid. I enjoy watching horror movie and not being able to sleep at night..hahaha... The only downside maybe because I rarely find someone who would willingly go to the theater with me to watch horror movie. Friends (and ex boyfriends) often comments they will not pay to get themselves frightened by some movie. So I watch horror film at home, most of the times.

From the romantic comedy (romcom), I enjoy Sleepless in Seattle and You've Got Mail. I think Meg and Tom did great on both. I have to tell you, I have a MAJOR crush on Tom Hanks' voice. Yep. His Voice. One of the sexiest voice.

Also from romcom, let's not forget Jane Austen adaptations: Pride & Prejudice (Greer Garson & Lawrence Olivier version), it's so funny and entertaining. While my favorite Mr. Darcy has got to be Matthew McFadyen from the recent version (with Keira Knightley). I also love Little Women.

Just like music, Indie genre fascinates me. Carandiru left a big impression on me. The way they shot and drag those prisoners like cattles. It's not human at all. Once is a film that lingers for a long time in my mind. I guess...love is more beautiful when left unsaid.

As for Hollywood products... I enjoy watching Sci-Fi & Fantasy. They make me go to another world, with new experience. I can imagine myself being Harry Potter sidekicks...or even Queen Amidala's personal assistant...see? I'm too modest.

If I am asked once again, from all genres...what movie inspires me the most, I have to answer 3 of them:
1. Shawshank Redemption
2. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
3. The Life of David Gale

Each is impressive in its own way.

Shawshank Redemption is a simple and tragic movie that ended up sweet for both main characters. Announced guilty for the murder of his wife, Andy Dufresne is sent to Shawshank prison to serve a life term. Becoming friends with Red, Andy tries to adapt to prison life, and goes on an unforgettable journey with Red inside the prison walls. Love the ending.



Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (starring the late James Stewart, directed by Frank Capra) is about a naive man (Jefferson Smith). In Washington, however, Smith discovers many of the shortcomings of the political process as his earnest goal leads to a conflict with the state political boss, Jim Taylor. Taylor first tries to corrupt Smith and then later attempts to destroy Smith through a scandal.



The Life of David Gale is about a University professor, Dr. David Gale, an advocate for the abolishment of death row, who is falsely convicted of rape and murder of another activist. He suddenly finds himself on death row. The film is told in flashbacks with a female reporter interviewing Gale. In the end Gale accomplish all his target, in the most intriguing way.

Have You Ever Experienced Blogger's Block?

I don't consider myself as a writer, at least a qualify one. Never in my mind to think of myself as writer. For Jack's sake, I was just starting my own blog for a little over 9 months. So... I consider myself a newborn. Newborn baby can't see a thing (except for angels).

As a newborn blogger (after in practice for 9 months), I can't seem to force myself to type/write something. It's been almost 2 months. I don't consider my last post (about a month ago) as an actual post, as I was wishing everyone 'eid mubarak', it was an easy one. Just about anyone can post something like that. I guess this is what they call "writer's block" or in my case "blogger's block".


Believe me, I've tried everything to overcome this condition. From planning an interesting topic, creating a supportive environment in my room, reading many topics, exploring other blogs, playing an interesting music, watching indie movies, reading a cutting edge book, writing down ideas, you name them. Nothing. None. Zero.


The Blockers

Where do ideas come from? Not sure. They just sort of pop out. Lately I just seem to have none, when it comes to blogging. Well.... I blame these things:

1. TV Series

• All interesting series I follow just beginning to start a new season (Heroes, House, Life, Samantha Who, Grey's Anatomy, and my guilty pleasures I'm ashamed to admit: Desperate Housewives, Gossip Girl and Dirty Sexy Money).
• TV stations are playing new interesting series: True Blood, Fringe, The Mentalist.

2. Baking, my new hobby
I seem to have a new budding interest over cooking (yay!), believe me during Ramadhan I've baked several cakes and they turned out to be good (meaning: nobody dies while eating them and they actually tasted ..... delicious - this is based from actual people who were actually eating them). Here's a picture of one of my baked products. Yummy huh!?




3. Office Work
There's a new pressure at the office, to say the least. The pressure to perform is entering a new era of backstabbing that I should be aware of. Hope I can come out alive.


4. The Twilight Saga
Yeah....I know I may sound a little bit teenish, compared to my actual age, but I like the first book and it keep me occupy for a while (finished the book, looking for the next books and counting on the days until the film actually on theaters - which is 12122008)



Excuses, Excuses

I know I may sound like a whiner or an escapist, I prefer the latter. But, today after sipping a cup of coffee with some friends @ Bakkoel Koffie and bringing my "book of ideas" with me, I finally decide to post. Accompany by The Decemberists (my new favorite band - not actually a feel good band, but they rock!) and a very very strong will, here I am. Back with a ..... (I would like to say '"vengeance", but the word would be too mambo jumbo)....post.

By the way.... back to the post title:
Have You Ever Experienced Blogger's Block? How do you battle with it?